We recognise Mary Molloy’s point that the Lord Howe Island eradication project has been poorly handled. As Mary rightly points out, the project team in that instance has not consulted with the local community very well so far. This is why we are working closely with the local community, and making as much information as possible available at each stage of the process to avoid repeating those mistakes. Once we know what the detailed proposal is, the Governance Group will look at bringing in external experts to discuss the issues with the local community. The Governance Group is in has contact with other predator eradication programmes, including Lord Howe Island, in order to share best practice and learn from each other.

Will DOC do outcome monitoring?

Yes – the details of this will need to be developed as the project progresses

Ultimately, given current technology, a fence is needed for this project to proceed. So it will be up to all partners to weigh up whether the damage done by a fence is worth the tourism and ecological benefits that could arise.

Will a predator free area reduce birds ability to cope with predators if they reinvade, thereby compromising their long term survival?

Our native birds have not adapted to introduced predators thus far, so this is unlikely.

Does the group need an aquaculture representative?

This is being considered by the Governance Group

How can I stay in touch with what is happening?

There are several ways that you can give feedback, ask questions and stay updated: